Queensland families sign up to free playgroup

Thousands of Queensland families have joined a playgroup in the last few months thanks to the Palaszczuk Government’s free playgroup campaign.

Education Minister Kate Jones said more than 2300 families have signed up for free membership with Playgroup Queensland since the beginning of PlayStars in July.

“The PlayStars partnership is providing families across Queensland with access to free quality playgroup experiences,” Ms Jones said.

“Playgroups provide children with the opportunity to learn and develop with other children through play.

“Playgroups also connect young parents where they can build social networks and share experiences.

“Under our partnership, every family with a child under 12 months can sign up for a free one year family membership with Playgroup Queensland.”

Ms Jones said the Palaszczuk Government was committed to providing children with the best possible start to their education.

“The early years are crucial for a child’s development and we want to provide the same opportunities to Queensland families regardless of where they live,” she said.

“Playgroup Queensland also supports families to create their own new local playgroups at mutually convenient times and places.

“Since the launch of the initiative on July 1 this year, 26 new playgroups have been created and more than 500 families have enquired about starting a new playgroup in their community.”

Playgroup Queensland membership allows families to attend any affiliated Playgroup Queensland playgroup and also provides access to a range of age appropriate resources.

Playgroup Queensland Chair Gloria Sherlock said the organisation was also very happy to be able to provide services to more Queensland families through the partnership.

“In just a few short months, we have welcomed more than 2300 Play Stars to the Playgroup Queensland family,” Ms Sherlock said.

“These parents and carers are enjoying access to our early childhood resources and social media network as well as forming friendships with other families who are experiencing the same highs and lows of parenting.

“This joint initiative between DET and Playgroup Queensland will last for five years – I can’t thank Education Minister Kate Jones enough to agreeing to partner with us in providing a way of connecting children and families to their communities.”

Jo Briskey, Executive Director of The Parenthood - Australia's leading parent advocacy group, representing over 50,000 mums and dads nationwide - said programs like PlayStars were crucial for the wellbeing of parents and babies. 

"Being a new parent can be incredibly challenging and often isolating, so extra support during the first 12 months is vital," Ms Briskey said. 

"I'm glad to see so many parents have taken advantage of the program and I congratulate the Queensland Government on their continued support."

For more information and to register: https://www.playgroupqld.com.au/become-a-member/play-stars/ 

Media contact: 3719 7530